Only 17 days until Christmas! Can you believe it?!
One of the often dreaded tasks during the holiday season is sending out cards. Not to worry though – I am here to help!
In true form, I have created a checklist to create some sanity with your card sending this year:
1. Decide what kind of cards you want to send. Are you going to get out the craft supplies and scissors and hand make them one by one? If so, you have my kudos. If you have fewer than 50 to send, this may be do-able. However, if you are like me, the list grows every year and is creeping up toward the triple digits.
Regardless of how many cards you are sending, I recommend that you include a photo or two and find an efficient, yet personable way to send them. SendOutCards has literally revolutionized the card sending process. Go to my site and send a card on me to see how it works.
If you don’t want to be crafty and aren’t ready to jump into the online program yet, then find the cards that are right for you. Many stores and photographers have a wide selection to choose from.
2. Finalize that mailing list. As I mentioned in my party planning post, having a great mailing list is everything. Go through it carefully. Check for name spellings, those who have recently moved, people who have passed away, and couples who have split. Utilize social media to verify addresses you are unsure of, or to add a few new ones. Print a hard copy of your mailing list to keep on your desk, as you will likely have moments when you ask yourself, “Did I remember so-and-so?”
3. Decide what you want to say, and write it down. A few format options include a formal letter, news bulletin, and short personal note. Most of the time, it is easier to write down notes first and then arrange it into a specific format second. Once you know what and how much content you are working with, it is easier to determine a format.
Be selective about what you say and how you say it. Think about how your mother, best friend, distant cousin, and boss will perceive your message. If recounting the year, provide highlights and not a boring rundown of absolutely everything, including the nasty cold you caught last month.
4. Address your cards with style. I prefer hand addressing to provide a personal touch, along with a regular postage stamp. Once again, SendOutCards provides this service, and the envelopes look great. I’m telling you now – there’s a reason I sell it. 🙂
5. Post offices give me headaches, and I don’t know anyone else who is ever thrilled to stand in line for stamps or to have mail weighed. Do your post office duties ahead of time (or – last plug – just use SendOutCards!). Weigh your card and purchase your stamps well before you send them out. By now, you are SOL for this year if you haven’t done your post office homework ahead of time. However, keep this tip in mind for next year.
6. Have a plan for the misses. You will inevitably forget someone, or receive a card from someone not on your radar. Decide when your last card sending date will be. If you send until all of the misses are done, you may be sending cards into the new year.
7. Final tip: NEVER email your holiday cards. I personally find this to be tacky. We do almost everything electronically these days. Can we please take the time to send at least one physical card to everyone once a year? It will mean more to the recipients than you realize – especially if you have fun, personalize it, and send it from the heart.
Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Happy Holidays & Happy New Year!
Mel & Jag
Mel's Musings 